Cotton Candy Cookies

Cotton Candy Cookies are soft, sweet, and bursting with the nostalgic flavor of cotton candy. These colorful and fun cookies are perfect for parties, celebrations, or whenever you want a whimsical treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique and fun cotton candy flavor
• Soft and chewy texture
• Beautiful pastel colors make them perfect for special occasions
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Great for kids and adults alike

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Cotton candy flavoring
• Pink and blue food coloring
• Cotton candy pieces (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and cotton candy flavoring, mixing until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Divide the dough into two equal portions and color one half with pink food coloring and the other with blue.
7. Take small amounts of each color and gently swirl them together to create a marbled effect.
8. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
10. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Variations

• Extra Sweetness: Drizzle with white chocolate or sprinkle with extra sugar.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
• Stuffed Cookies: Add a cotton candy-flavored cream filling for an extra surprise.
• Sprinkle Fun: Mix in pastel-colored sprinkles for a festive look.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Freezer: Freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

Can I use real cotton candy in the dough?

No, cotton candy dissolves when mixed into the dough. It’s best used as a garnish.

Where can I find cotton candy flavoring?

It’s available online or in specialty baking stores.

Can I make these cookies without food coloring?

Yes, but they won’t have the signature pastel swirls. The flavor remains the same.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking.

Can I use a different flavor?

Yes! Try swapping the cotton candy flavoring for bubblegum or vanilla for a fun twist.

How do I achieve the perfect marbled effect?

Gently swirl the colored dough together without overmixing to maintain distinct colors.

Are these cookies overly sweet?

They have a light, sweet flavor reminiscent of cotton candy but aren’t overwhelmingly sugary.

Can I add mix-ins?

Yes! White chocolate chips or small marshmallow bits make great additions.

Do these cookies harden after cooling?

No, they remain soft and chewy, especially when stored properly.

Conclusion

Cotton Candy Cookies are a fun and whimsical treat that brings a burst of sweetness and nostalgia to any occasion. With their soft texture, vibrant colors, and delicious flavor, they’re perfect for parties, bake sales, or simply indulging in a childhood favorite. Try them today and enjoy a taste of cotton candy in cookie form!

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